Florida is home to many people who have emigrated from other countries. Some have already obtained green cards or initiated the naturalization process. Others, however, may be facing legal problems as they navigate the U.S. immigration system and asylum process.
There are several means of eligibility for requesting asylum in this country. Most people request asylum through the affirmative asylum process or the defensive asylum process. It is important to know which is the best option in a specific set of circumstances and to have all documents in order before filing a petition.
Some asylum applicants may file the I-589 form online
While online submission of the I-589 form (needed for requesting asylum) does not apply to everyone, the following list shows several situations where filing online may be applicable:
- A case has been brought before the Board of Immigration Appeals.
- A child entered the U.S. unaccompanied and is scheduled for removal.
- An applicant meets requirements listed under Special Instructions on the I-589 form.
- I-589 form is pending with USCIS.
A request for asylum must be filed within one year of arriving in the United States. Petitions filed after that will not be considered for asylum.
Many immigrants are afraid to return to their countries of origin
In Florida and throughout the country, there are millions of people who arrived in the United States and are seeking asylum because of a credible fear of returning to their country of origin. Such fears often stem from life-threatening situations, torture or persecution. Anyone who has a credible fear may seek asylum through the defensive asylum process. An immigration attorney can help determine which course of action is best in a particular case.
